Image forming system

ABSTRACT

When a holder of an ID card approaches an image formation instructing device for sending an image forming instruction to an image forming apparatus, an ID code stored in a RF-ID element built in the ID card is read by a RF communication device. When the image formation instructing device transmits an image forming instruction to the image forming apparatus in this condition, an image forming operation is executed and the number of sheets for image formation is counted by counting means. Further, the counted number of sheets for image formation is associated with an ID code having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code read by the RF communication device and thereafter stored and held in a number-of-sheets file. Thus, the number of sheets for image formation is managed without preparing a key counter, a key card, etc. and without special operation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as acopier, a printer or the like, which is capable of managing the numberof sheets for image formation.

2. Description of the Related Art

As an image forming apparatus such as a copier, a printer or the like,one has heretofore been known wherein the number of sheets for imageformation can be managed for each specific individual or post. Forexample, the image forming apparatus is provided with a key such as akey counter, a key card or the like inserted therein and attachedthereto. When the image forming apparatus is in use, such a key isinserted into and attached thereto so that the operation thereof isallowed. In the case of the key counter, the number of sheets for imageformation is set to the key counter itself. In the case of the key card,the number of sheets for image formation is stored in an image formingapparatus or computer to which a reader/writer of the key card isconnected.

As the need for managing the number of sheets for image formation foreach specific individual or post in the image forming apparatus, theadoption of such a system that each individual or post is charged withan amount corresponding to the number of sheets for image formation isconsidered. Namely, when one or more image forming apparatuses are usedin a plurality of persons or a plurality of posts, respectiveindividuals or posts might be billed according to the amount of theiruse. Such a case needs to manage the number of sheets for imageformation in each image forming apparatus.

Problems of such a prior art will next be explained.

When one attempts to manage the number of sheets for image formation foreach specific individual or post, a key counter or a key card isprepared and must be attached to each image forming apparatus. Since itis not realistic that one like the key counter is prepared for eachindividual in particular, the management of the number of sheets forimage formation by the key counter should unavoidably be done inpredetermined units such as every posts, etc. Having to take the troubleto prepare these key counter and key card even in the case of the keycounter and the key card leads to cumbersomeness in itself. The factthat the key counter or key card must be mounted to the image formingapparatus, is also cumbersome in itself.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to allow the number of sheets forimage formation to be managed without preparing a key counter, a keycard, etc.

Another object of the present invention is to allow the number of sheetsfor image formation to be managed without special operation.

A further object of the present invention is to allow the number ofsheets for image formation to be properly managed without preparing akey counter or a key card and without special operation.

According to the present invention as viewed from one aspect, an imageforming apparatus for executing an image forming operation according toan image forming instruction issued from an image formation instructingdevice is provided, a RF communication device for counting the number ofsheets for the formation of each image by the image forming apparatusand reading a personal ID code from a RF-ID element of a ID cardincorporating therein the RF-ID element for storing at least thepersonal ID code is provided within the image formation instructingdevice, and a number-of-sheets file for storing therein the number ofsheets for the formation of each image by the image forming apparatusfor each ID code having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code isprovided. Thus, when an image forming instruction is given to the imageforming apparatus from the image formation instructing device while theRF communication device is reading the personal ID code, the countednumber of sheets for image formation based on the image forminginstruction is stored in the number-of-sheets file in association witheach ID code having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code readby the RF communication device.

According to the present invention as viewed from another aspect, animage forming apparatus for executing an image forming operationaccording to an image forming instruction issued from an image formationinstructing device is provided, a RF communication device for performinga RF communication with an ID card incorporating therein a RF-ID elementfor storing at least one personal ID code and the number of sheets forimage formation to thereby read the personal ID code and the number ofthe sheets for image formation from the RF-ID element is provided withinthe image formation instructing device, and a number-of-sheets file forstoring therein the number of sheets for the formation of each image bythe image forming apparatus for each personal ID code is provided. Thus,when the RF communication device reads the personal ID code and thenumber of the sheets for image formation, the read number of sheets forimage formation is compared with the number of sheets for imageformation associated with the corresponding ID code, which is stored inthe number-of-sheets file. Further, when the number of the sheets forimage formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file is greater thanthe number of the sheets for image formation read by the RFcommunication device as a result of comparison thereof, the number ofthe sheets for image formation stored in the RF-ID element built in theID card is updated to be the number of the sheets for image formationstored in the number-of-sheets file by using the RF communicationdevice.

According to the present invention as viewed from a further aspect, animage forming apparatus for executing an image forming operationaccording to an image forming instruction issued from an image formationinstructing device is provided, a RF communication device for performinga RF communication with an ID card incorporating therein a RF-ID elementfor storing at least one personal ID code and the number of sheets forimage formation to thereby read the personal ID code and the number ofthe sheets for image formation from the RF-ID element is provided withinthe image formation instructing device, and a number-of-sheets file forstoring the number of sheets for the formation of each image by theimage forming apparatus for each personal ID code is provided. Thus,when the RF communication device reads the personal ID code and thenumber of the sheets for image formation, the read number of sheets forimage formation is compared with the number of the sheets for imageformation associated with the corresponding ID code, which is stored inthe number-of-sheets file. Further, when the number of the sheets forimage formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file is fewer than thenumber of the sheets for image formation read by the RF communicationdevice as a result of comparison thereof, the number of the sheets forimage formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file is updated to bethe number of the sheets for image formation read by the RFcommunication device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of the present invention and many of theattendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the samebecomes better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of the entire system showing anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a typical diagram for describing the outline of a RF-IDsystem;

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an image forming apparatus(copier);

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a RF-ID element;

FIG. 5 is a typical diagram showing a data structure of anumber-of-sheets file (personal file);

FIG. 6 is a typical diagram illustrating a data structure of anumber-of-sheets file (post file);

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a process for counting the number ofsheets for the formation of images by the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a process performed by a hostcomputer after having received response data from the image formingapparatus (copier);

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of the entire system showing anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process for counting the number ofsheets for the formation of images by an image forming apparatus;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a process performed by a hostcomputer after having received response data from the image formingapparatus; and

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a process performed by the image formingapparatus having received an image forming instruction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will next be described.

Summary of Embodiment of the Present Invention

An image forming system according to the present invention comprises, asone embodiment thereof, an image forming apparatus which executes animage forming operation in response to an image forming instructionissued from an image formation designating or instructing device, meansfor counting the number of sheets for the formation of images by theimage forming apparatus, a RF communication device which is providedwithin the image formation instructing device and reads a personal IDcode from an RF-ID device or element of an ID card having at least theRF-ID element for storing the personal ID code therein, a volume ornumber-of-sheets file which stores the number of sheets for theformation of images by the image forming apparatus for every ID codeseach having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code, storing meansfor, when the image forming instruction is issued from the imageformation instructing device to the image forming apparatus while the RFcommunication device is reading the personal ID code, allowing thenumber of sheets for the formation of images based on the image forminginstruction counted by the counting means to correspond to the ID codeseach having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code read by the RFcommunication device. Here, the RF-ID of the RF-ID element is short for“Radio Frequency Identification”. Such a RF-ID is a system foridentifying each individual or transmitting and receiving data by radiowaves according to a combination of a small-sized recording medium (datacarrier) and a reader/writer.

Thus, as an ID card holder approaches the image formation instructingdevice, a personal ID code stored in an RF-ID element built in the IDcard is read by the RF communication device. When the image formationinstructing device sends an image forming instruction to the imageforming apparatus in this condition, an image forming operation isexecuted and the number of sheets for the formation of images is countedby the counting means. The counted number of sheets for the formation ofthe images is associated with ID codes each having predetermined bearingon the personal ID code read by the RF communication device and storedand held in the number-of-sheets file. Thus, the number of sheets forthe formation of the images can be managed without preparing a keycounter, a key card or the like. Further, the number of sheets for theformation of the images can be managed without special operation.

The image formation instructing device may be provided integrally withthe image forming apparatus. In this case, the image formationinstructing device is comprised of an image forming operation startswitch or the like provided within the image forming apparatus. Evenwhen the ID card holder gives an image forming instruction to the imageforming apparatus, the number of sheets for the formation of images canbe managed or controlled without preparing the key counter, the key cardor the like. It is also possible to manage the number of sheets for theformation of the images without special operation.

The image formation instructing device may be placed in a position awayseparately from the image forming apparatus. In this case, the imageformation instructing device is comprised of, for example, a personalcomputer LAN-connected to the image forming apparatus. Thus, when the IDcard holder gives an image forming instruction to the image formingapparatus from the position away from the image forming apparatus, thenumber of sheets for the formation of images can be managed withoutpreparing the key counter, the key card or the like. Further, the numberof the sheets for the formation of the images can be managed withoutspecial operation.

Each ID code may be a code identical to the personal ID code. Thus, thenumber of sheets for the formation of images is held in thenumber-of-sheets file for each individual. The number of the sheets forthe formation of the images can be stored in the number-of-sheets file.

The ID code may be an ID code indicative of a deposition or post towhich each individual corresponding to the personal ID card belongs.Thus, the number of sheets for the formation of images is held in thenumber-of-sheets file for each post to which each individualcorresponding to the personal ID code belongs. The number of sheets forthe formation of images can be stored in the number-of-sheets file foreach post to which each individual corresponding to the personal ID codebelongs.

Amount calculating means for calculating an amount for each ID code onthe basis of the number of the sheets for the formation of the images,which has been stored in the number-of-sheets file, can be furtherprovided. Thus, the amount is calculated for each ID code, and billinginformation set for each ID code, for example, can be easily obtained.

The RF-ID element stores the number of sheets for the formation of theimages by the image forming apparatus therein. The storing means may beconstructed so that when the image forming instruction is given from theimage formation instructing device to the image forming apparatus whilethe RF communication device is reading each personal ID code, the numberof sheets for the formation of images, based on the image forminginstruction counted by the counting means is added to the RF-ID element.Thus, information about the number of the sheets for the image formationis stored even in each ID card itself with the RF-ID element builttherein. Accordingly, the number of the sheets for the image formationcan be managed by reference to the information stored in the RF-IDelement without preparing the key counter, the key card or the like.Further, the number of the sheets for the image formation can be managedwithout special operation.

There is provided a permit code storage area for storing in advance apermit code for permitting an image forming instruction issued from theimage formation instructing device. When the RF-ID element stores apermit code therein and the operation for the image forming instructionis effected on the image formation instructing device, the image forminginstruction may be rendered invalid when the RF communication device isreading each code unstored in the permit code storage area.Consequently, the image forming apparatus performs an image formingoperation according to the image forming instruction issued from theimage formation instructing device only where the RF communicationdevice is reading each permit code stored in the permit code storagearea. Thus, the system comprised principally of the RF-ID element can beallowed to have a function similar to the conventionally used keycounter or key card.

When the RF communication device is reading each code unstored in thepermit code storage area where the operation for the image forminginstruction is effected on the image formation instructing device, theRF communication device may notify the contents thereof. The“notification” may include voice-based notification, display-basednotification, etc. and is regardless of its type. Thus, it is possibleto cause an operator to understand an attempt to carry out his or herincorrect operation. Further, an unauthorized use can be clearlydemonstrated against a third party. In this case, the personal ID codecan be used as the permit code. In this case, the personal ID code andthe permit code can be shared, and the storage area of the RF-ID elementcan be effectively utilized.

There is provided a permit code storage area for storing in advance eachpermit code for permitting an image forming instruction issued from theimage formation instructing device. When the RF-ID element stores thepermit code therein and the operation for the image forming instructionis effected on the image formation instructing device, the image forminginstruction may be rendered invalid when the RF communication devicedoes not read any code. Consequently, the image forming apparatusperforms an image forming operation according to the image forminginstruction issued from the image formation instructing device onlywhere the RF communication device is reading each permit code stored inthe permit code storage area. Thus, the system comprised principally ofthe RF-ID element is allowed to have a function similar to theconventionally used key counter or key card.

When the RF communication device does not read any code where theoperation for the image forming instruction is effected on the imageformation instructing device, the RF communication device may notifysuch contents. The “notification” may include voice-based notification,display-based notification, etc. and is regardless of its type. Thus, itis possible to cause an operator to understand an attempt to carry outhis or her incorrect operation. Further, an unauthorized use can beclearly demonstrated against a third party. When the personal ID code isused as the permit code in this case, the personal ID code and thepermit code can be shared and the storage area of the RF-ID element canbe effectively utilized.

A billing device for performing predetermined billing according to theoperation of the image forming apparatus is further provided. When theRF communication device does not any code where the operation for theimage forming instruction is effected on the image formation instructingdevice, the billing device is activated and thereby the image forminginstruction may be rendered valid with settlement made by the billingdevice as a condition. Thus, if the settlement to be made by the billingdevice is given even if the RF communication device does not read anycode, then the image forming apparatus performs the image formingoperation according to the image forming instruction issued from theimage formation instructing device. Accordingly, it is possible to causeusers in a wider range to rightfully use the image forming apparatus.

<Specific Forms>

A more specific form of an embodiment according to the present inventionwill be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 through 8. FIG. 1 is aschematic block diagram of the entire system. In an image forming systemaccording to the present embodiment, a plurality of copiers 1 eachserving as an image forming apparatus and a plurality of printers 2 arerespectively LAN-connected to a host computer 4 and a plurality ofpersonal computers 5 through a LAN control device 3. Namely, the LANcontrol device 3 is comprised of a hub, a router, etc. and makes itpossible to perform communications among the host computer 4, thepersonal computers 5, the copiers 1 and the printers 2. A data base 6 isconstructed for the host computer 4.

FIG. 2 is a typical diagram for describing the summary of a RF-IDsystem. The image forming system according to the present embodimentidentifies each individual on the basis of RF-ID between the copiers 1and printers 2 and their operators 7 and performs the transmission andreception of data therebetween. Since RF-ID is such a technique knownper se as introduced even in, for example, Japanese Patent ApplicationLaid-Open No. 10-273208 or the like, the description thereof will beomitted.

In the present embodiment, a RF communication device 8 is incorporatedinto each copier 1 LAN-connected to the host computer 4. The copier 1 isconstructed in such a way as to communicate between a RF-ID device orelement 10 built in a member certificate 9 used as an ID card put oneach operator 7 and the RF communication device 8. Although not shown inthe drawing, the RF communication device 8 is incorporated even in eachprinter 2. The printer 2 is constructed so as to perform communicationsbetween the RF-ID element 10 built in the member certificate 9 used asthe ID card put on each operator 7 and the RF communication device 8.

Namely, the copier 1 is provided with an image reader 11 and an imageformer 12 as shown in a schematic block diagram of the copier 1 shown inFIG. 3. Further, the copier 1 includes a drive control circuit 13 fordriving and controlling these image reader 11 and image former 12. Thedrive control circuit 13 is comprised of a microcomputer and performsvarious control operations in accordance with operating programs storedin a ROM of the microcomputer. The drive control circuit 13 executes,for example, the operation of reading an image by the image reader 11,the operation of forming the read image by the image former 12, etc.Such image reading and forming operations are executed under the controlof the microcomputer with the pressing down of an unillustrated startbutton of the copier 1 as trigger. Here, the functions of anunillustrated image formation instructing device are executed. However,the image forming operation may be constructed so as to start accordingto a command issued from the corresponding personal computer 5 or thelike LAN-connected to the copier 1. In this case, a copy command and aprint command employed in the personal computer 5 or the like areexecuted as the functions of the image formation instructing device. Acommunication circuit 14 for LAN and a RF communication device 8 arealso connected to the drive control circuit 13. Incidentally, when thecopy and print commands employed in the personal computer 5 or the likeare executed as the functions of the image formation instructing device,the RF communication device 8 is built in or connected to the personalcomputer 5 and thereby disposed in the vicinity of the personal computer5. Further, the respective parts 8, 11, 12, 13 and 14 employed in such acopier 1 are activated by being supplied with power from a power circuit15.

While an example of the copier 1 is illustrated in FIG. 3 here, theprinter 2 has substantially the same block configuration.

Next, as shown in a schematic block diagram of a RF-ID element 10 inFIG. 4, the RF-ID element 10 is constructed so that a RF circuit 18 isconnected to a control circuit 17 to which an EEPROM 16 is connected.The RF circuit 18 is an analog circuit for implementing radiocommunications, and the control circuit 17 is a digital circuit forprocessing data transmitted and received through the RF circuit 18. Eachpersonal ID code set to an owner of a member certificate 9 with theRF-ID element 10 built therein, and the number of sheets to be copiedfor each copier 1 and the number of sheets to be printed for eachprinter 2 are stored and held in the EEPROM 16.

Here, the host computer 4 is provided with various file structures inits data base 6. FIG. 5 is a typical diagram showing a data structure ofa personal file 19 defined as a number-of-sheets file, and FIG. 6 is atypical diagram illustrating a data structure of a post file 20 definedas a number-of-sheets file, respectively. The personal file 19 isprovided with respective data storage areas for names 19 b, positions orassignments 19 c, the numbers of sheets to be copied 19 d and thenumbers of sheets to be printed 19 e every ID codes 19 a eachcorresponding to each personal ID code stored in the EEPROM 1. Thenumbers of the sheets to be copied 19 d and the numbers of the sheets tobe printed 19 e are respectively areas for storing and holding thenumbers of sheets to be copied and the numbers of sheets to be printedevery ID codes for the copier 1 and printer 2. The post file 20 includesrespective data storage areas for the numbers of sheets to be copied 20b, the numbers of sheets to be printed 20 c, amount for copy 20 c,amount for print 20 e and total amounts 20 f every post codes 20 adefined as ID codes. Each post code 20 a is a code corresponding to eachassignment 19 c in the personal file 19. Further, the number of thesheets to be copied 20 b, the number of the sheets to be printed 20 c,the amount for copy 20 d and the amount for print 20 e are respectivelyareas for storing and holding the number of the sheets to be copied, thenumber of the sheets to be printed, the amount for copy and the amountfor print every ID codes for the copier 1 and the printer 2.

Processes of such an image forming system at the time that the member orcompany staffer corresponding to the operator 7 approaches the copier 1or the printer 2 with the intention of copying or printing, will beexplained based on flowcharts shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 is aflowchart showing a process for counting the number of sheets for imageformation, which is employed in each of the copier 1 and printer 2. Whenthe operator 7 corresponding to the company staffer with the membercertificate 9 put thereon approaches the copier 1 or the printer 2, theRF communication device 8 lying within the copier 1 or printer 2receives a radio signal sent from the RF circuit 18 placed within theRF-ID element 10 and hence the drive control circuit 13 lying within thecopier 1 or printer 2 recognizes the presence of a RF reaction (StepSI). Thus, the copier 1 or printer 2 transmits query data through the RFcommunication device 8 by radio waves (Step S2). The contents of thequery includes a query as to each personal ID code and a query about thenumbers of sheets to be copied and printed. Correspondingly, the RF-IDelement 10 lying within the member certificate 9 transmits each personalID code and the numbers of the sheets to be copied and printed, whichhave been stored and held in the EEPROM 16, through the RF circuit 18 byradio waves. The numbers of the sheets to be copied and printed in thiscase are set every ID codes for the copier 1 and printer 2. The copier 1and printer 2 respectively receive response data sent from such a RF-IDelement 10 (Step S3) and transmits the response data to the hostcomputer 4 via a LAN line (Step S4). It is thereafter determined whethercopying and printing have been executed (Step S5). If it is determinedthat the copying and printing have been executed, then the numbers ofsheets to be copied and printed are counted (counting means) and thecounted increased number-of-sheets data is transmitted to the hostcomputer 4 via the LAN line (Step S6). The number of sheets counted bythe counting means is transmitted by radio waves through the RFcommunication device 8. The data about the counted number of sheets,which has been transmitted by radio waves in this way, is captured bythe RF-ID element 10 through the RF circuit 18, so that the data storedin the EEPROM 16 is updated (Step S7). Namely, the number of the sheetsto be copied or the number of the sheets to be printed for thecorresponding copier 1 or printer 2, which has been stored in the EEPROM16, is updated. Here, the function of the storing means is executed.

As other embodiment, the RF circuit 18 may store up the data itselfabout the counted number of sheets to be copied or the numbers of thesheets to be printed for the corresponding copier 1 or printer 2, whichhas been transmitted by radio waves, in the EEPROM 16. In thisembodiment, total numbers of the sheets to be copied or the numbers ofthe sheets to be printed for the corresponding copier 1 or printer 2 canbe easily obtained by adding all data about the counted number of sheetsto be copied or the numbers of the sheets to be printed for thecorresponding copier 1 or printer 2.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process to be executed by the hostcomputer after having received the response data from the copier 1 andthe printer 2. When the response data transmitted from the copier 1 andprinter 2 are received by the host computer 4 in Step S4 in theflowchart shown in FIG. 7 (Step S11), ID codes (corresponding to eachindividual ID codes in this case) are extracted from the response data(Step S12). Next, the corresponding ID code is retrieved from thepersonal file 19 illustrated in FIG. 5 by way of example. The number ofsheets to be copied 19 d and the number of sheets to be printed 19 eboth corresponding to the retrieved ID code are compared with the numberof sheets to be copied and the number of sheets to be printed in theresponse data (Step S13). The comparison in this case is performed everyID codes with respect to both the copier 1 and the printer 2. Here, thefunction of comparing means is executed. If the resultant values do notcoincide with each other as a result of its execution, then the numberof the sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of the sheets to beprinted 19 e in the personal file 19 are brought up to the number of thesheets to be copied and the number of the sheets to be printed in theresponse data, and the number sheets to be copied 20 b, the number ofsheets to be printed 20 c, the amount for copy 20 d, the amount forprint 20 e and the total amount 20 f in each post file are also updatedtogether (Step S14). Here, the number of the sheets to be copied 20 bandthe number of the sheets to be printed 20 c corresponding to thecorresponding post code 20 a in the post file 20 are a collection or setof common items for the assignments 19 c in the personal file 19.Further, the amount for copy 20 d, the amount for print 20 e and thetotal amount 20 f are calculated by the host computer 4 based on thenumber of sheets to be copied 20 band the number of sheets to be printed20 c set for each post code 20 a. In particular, the amount for copy 20d and the amount for print 20 e are calculated for each copier 1 andeach printer 2 with each ID code as a key. Here, the function of amountcalculating means is executed.

Thereafter, when the increased number-of-sheets data transmitted fromthe copier 1 and the printer 2 are received by the host computer 4 inStep S6 in the flowchart of FIG. 7 (Step S15), the number of sheets tobe copied 19 d and the number of sheets to be printed 19 e in eachpersonal file 19 are updated according to the increased number-of-sheetsdata, and the number of sheets to be copied 20 b, the number of sheetsto be printed 20 c, the amount for copy 20 d, the amount for print 20 eand the total amount 20 f in each post file 20 are also updated together(Step S14). Here, the functions of the storing means and amountcalculating means are executed.

Thus, according to the present embodiment, the number of sheets forimage formation, such as the number of sheets to be copied, the numberof sheets to be printed or the like can be finely managed withoutpreparing the conventionally used key counter, key card, etc. andwithout special operation. It is also possible to easily obtain billinginformation.

Next, the number-of-sheets file 19 also serves as a permit code storagearea. Namely, when the response data transmitted from the copier 1 andprinter 2 are received by the host computer 4 in Step S4 in theflowchart shown in FIG. 7 (Step S11), ID codes (corresponding to eachindividual ID codes in this case) are extracted from the response data(Step S12). Next, the corresponding ID code is retrieved from thepersonal file 19 illustrated in FIG. 5 by way of example. If it is foundat this time that the corresponding ID code cannot be retrieved from thepersonal file 19, then the host computer 4 feeds back information aboutits contents to the copier 1 or printer 2. As a result, the copier 1 orprinter 2 to which the information about the inability to retrieve theID code is returned, notifies its contents according to a process in thedrive control circuit 13 thereof and prohibits a copy operation or printoperation. In this sense, each personal ID code stored in the EEPROM 16of the RF-ID element 10 functions even as a permit code. Namely, thepersonal ID code and the permit code are placed in a combined use andthe storage capacity of the EEPROM 16 is effectively utilized.Incidentally, the notification thereof by the copier 1 or printer 2includes an indication made by an unillustrated display, voicenotification, etc. and is regardless of its type.

Here, the prohibition of the copy and print operations and theirnotification or notice are carried out even when the start buttons ofthe copier 1 and printer 2 are pressed in the state (N in Step S1) inwhich it is not determined in Step S1 of FIG. 7 that the RF reaction ispresent. Such processing is also performed according to processing to becarried out by the drive control circuit 13 in each of the copier 1 andprinter 2. However, the present embodiment is provided with anunillustrated billing device wherein the amount for copy and the amountfor print are calculated and settlement of their amounts in cash or by acredit card is accepted. The billing device may be constructed so as toallow the copy operation of the copier 1 or the print operation of theprinter 2 even in the case of the state in which it is not determined inStep S1 of FIG. 7 that the RF reaction exists, on the condition that thesettlement of the amounts in cash or by the credit card or the like hasbeen made. The image forming system having such a configuration is soconvenient under such a condition that in a library or the like, forexample, a staff member having an ID card like a member certificate 9and a visitor who does not hold such an ID card, share the use of thecopier 1 and the printer 2 or the like.

Another embodiment of the present invention will next be described.

Suammary of Another Embodiment of the Present Invention

In sum, the image forming system according to the aforementionedembodiment is a system wherein the RF-ID element for storing eachpersonal ID card and the number of sheets for image formation therein isbuilt in the ID card like the member certificate, for example, thenumber-of-sheets file for storing the number of the sheets for imageformation therein is provided, the RF communication device is used toread the corresponding personal ID code from the RF-ID element built inthe member certificate of the person who performs the operation for theimage forming instruction, and the numbers of the sheets for imageformation associated with the RF-ID element and the number-of-sheetsfile are updated every image forming operations. In such a system, thenumber of the sheets for image formation, which is stored in the RF-IDelement, should coincide in principle with the number of the sheets forimage formation, which is stored in the number-of-sheets file. However,when the person who has done the operation for the image forminginstruction, is left for a place at which the communication rangeexceeds a RF-ID-based communication range, immediately after theexecution of its operation, the number of the sheets for image formationstored in the RF-ID element is expected to become fewer than the numberof the sheets for image formation stored in the number-of-sheets file.On the other hand, when a necessary updating process is not effected onthe number-of-sheets file due to a system failure or the like, thenumber of the sheets for image formation stored in the RF-ID element isexpected to become greater than the number of the sheets for imageformation stored in the number-of-sheets file. There is a possibilitythat in either case, the number of the sheets for image formation storedin the RF-ID element will be mismatched with the number of the sheetsfor image formation stored in the number-of-sheets file due to anyreason.

Therefore, another embodiment of the present invention can beconstructed as an image forming system which comprises an image formingapparatus for executing an image forming operation according to an imageforming instruction issued from an image formation instructing device, aRF communication device provided in the image formation instructingdevice and for performing a RF communication with an ID card having aRF-ID element built therein for storing at least each personal ID codeand the number of sheets for image formation therein to thereby read thecorresponding personal ID code and the number of sheets for. imageformation from the RF-ID element, a number-of-sheets file for storingthe number of sheets for the formation of each image by the imageforming apparatus for each personal ID code, comparing means for, whenthe RF communication device reads the personal ID code and the number ofsheets for image formation, comparing the number of the sheets for imageformation with the number of the sheets for image formationcorresponding to the corresponding ID code, which has been stored in thenumber-of-sheets file, and first updating means for, when the number ofthe sheets for image formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file isgreater than the number of the sheets for image formation read by the RFcommunication device as a result of the comparison by the comparingmeans, updating the number of the sheets for image formation in theRF-ID element built in the ID card to be the number of the sheets forimage formation stored in the number-of-sheets file by using the RFcommunication device.

Thus, as an ID card holder approaches the image formation instructingdevice, each personal ID code and the number of sheets for imageformation both stored in the RF-ID element built in the ID card are readby the RF communication device. Further, the read number of sheets forimage formation is compared with the number of sheets for imageformation corresponding to the corresponding ID code, which has beenstored in the number-of-sheets file. When the number of the sheets forimage formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file is greater thanthe number of the sheets for image formation read by the RFcommunication device as a result of its comparison, the RF communicationdevice is used to update the number of the sheets for image formation inthe RF-ID element built in the ID card to be the number of the sheetsfor image formation stored in the number-of-sheets file. Thus, thenumber of the sheets for image formation in the RF-ID element built inthe ID card coincides with the number of the sheets for image formationstored in the number-of-sheets file. Namely, the number of the sheetsfor image formation in the RF-ID element built in the ID card can bematched with the number of the sheets for image formation stored in thenumber-of-sheets file so as to avoid a contradiction between the two.

A further embodiment can be constructed as an image forming system whichcomprises an image forming apparatus for executing an image formingoperation according to an image forming instruction issued from an imageformation instructing device, a RF communication device provided in theimage formation instructing device and for performing a RF communicationwith an ID card having a RF-ID element built therein for storing atleast each personal ID code and the number of sheets for image formationtherein to thereby read the corresponding personal ID code and thenumber of sheets for image formation from the RF-ID element, anumber-of-sheets file for storing the number of sheets for the formationof each image by the image forming apparatus for each personal ID code,comparing means for, when the RF communication device reads the personalID code and the number of sheets for image formation, comparing thenumber of the sheets for image formation with the number of the sheetsfor image formation corresponding to the corresponding ID code, whichhas been stored in the number-of-sheets file, and second updating meansfor, when the number of the sheets for image formation recorded in thenumber-of-sheets file is fewer than the number of the sheets for imageformation read by the RF communication device as a result of thecomparison by the comparing means, updating the number of the sheets forimage formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file to be the numberof the sheets for image formation read by the RF communication device.

Thus, as an ID card holder approaches the image formation instructingdevice, each personal ID code and the number of sheets for imageformation both stored in the RF-ID element built in the ID card are readby the RF communication device. Further, the read number of sheets forimage formation is compared with the number of sheets for imageformation corresponding to the corresponding ID code, which has beenstored in the number-of-sheets file. When the number of the sheets forimage formation recorded in the number-of-sheets file is fewer than thenumber of the sheets for image formation read by the RF communicationdevice as a result of its comparison, the number of the sheets for imageformation stored in the number-of-sheets file is updated to be thenumber of the sheets for image formation read by the RF communicationdevice. Thus, the number of the sheets for image formation in the RF-IDelement built in the ID card coincides with the number of the sheets forimage formation stored in the number-of-sheets file. Namely, the numberof the sheets for image formation in the RF-ID element built in the IDcard can be matched with the number of the sheets for image formationstored in the number-of-sheets file so as to avoid a contradictionbetween the two.

The image formation instructing device may be provided integrally withthe image forming apparatus. In this case, the image formationinstructing device is comprised of an image forming operation startswitch or the like provided within the image forming apparatus. Thus,even when the ID card holder gives an image forming instruction to theimage forming apparatus, the number of the sheets for image formation inthe RF-ID element built in the ID card and the number of the sheets forimage formation stored in the number-of-sheets file are renderedcoincident with each other, so that a contradiction between the two canbe avoided. Further, the RF communication device may be providedintegrally with the image forming apparatus. Consequently, the imageforming apparatus can be singly provided with the functions of the imageformation instructing device and the RF reader.

On the other hand, the image formation instructing device may be placedin a position away separately from the image forming apparatus. In thiscase, the image formation instructing device is comprised of, forexample, a personal computer LAN-connected to the image formingapparatus. Thus, when the ID card holder gives an image forminginstruction to the image forming apparatus from the position away fromthe image forming apparatus, the number of the sheets for imageformation in the RF-ID element built in the ID card and the number ofthe sheets for image formation stored in the number-of-sheets file arematched with each other, whereby a contradiction between the two can beavoided.

There is also provided a permit code storage area for storing in advancea permit code for permitting an image forming instruction issued fromthe image formation instructing device. Further, when the operation forthe image forming instruction is effected on the image formationinstructing device, first image forming instruction invalidating meansfor invalidating the image forming instruction when the RF communicationdevice is reading each code unstored in the permit code storage area,may be provided. Thus, since the image forming apparatus performs animage forming operation according to the image forming instructionissued from the image formation instructing device only where the RFcommunication device is reading each permit code stored in the permitcode storage area, the system comprised principally of the RF-ID elementcan be allowed to have a function similar to the conventionally used keycounter or key card.

When the RF communication device is reading each code unstored in thepermit code storage area where the operation for the image forminginstruction is effected on the image formation instructing device, firstnotifying means for notifying its contents may be provided. The“notification” may include voice-based notification, display-basednotification, etc. and is regardless of its type. Thus, it is possibleto cause an operator to understand an attempt to carry out his or herincorrect operation. Further, an unauthorized use can be clearlydemonstrated against a third party. In this case, the permit code can bedefined as each personal ID code. In this case, it is possible to sharethe use of the personal ID code and the permit code. Thus, the storagearea of the RF-ID element can be effectively utilized.

There is also provided a permit code storage area for storing in advanceeach permit code for permitting an image forming instruction issued fromthe image formation instructing device. Further, when the RFcommunication device does not read any code when the operation for theimage forming instruction is effected on the image formation instructingdevice, second image forming instruction invalidating means forinvalidating the image forming instruction may be provided. Thus, theimage forming apparatus performs an image forming operation according tothe image forming instruction issued from the image formationinstructing device only where the RF communication device is readingeach permit code stored in the permit code storage area. Thus, thesystem comprised principally of the RF-ID element can be allowed to havea function similar to the conventionally used key counter or key card.

When the RF communication device does not read any code where theoperation for the image forming instruction is effected on the imageformation instructing device, second notifying means for notifying itscontents may be provided. The “notification” may include voice-basednotification, display-based notification, etc. and is regardless of itstype. Thus, it is possible to cause an operator to understand an attemptto carry out his or her incorrect operation. Further, an unauthorizeduse can be clearly demonstrated against a third party.

A billing device for performing predetermined billing according to theoperation of the image forming apparatus is further provided. When theRF communication device does not any code where the operation for theimage forming instruction is effected on the image formation instructingdevice, the billing device is activated and thereby the image forminginstruction may be rendered valid with settlement made by the billingdevice as a condition. Thus, if the settlement to be made by the billingdevice is given even if the RF communication device does not read anycode, then the image forming apparatus performs the image formingoperation according to the image forming instruction issued from theimage formation instructing device. Thus, it is possible to cause usersin a wider range to rightfully use the image forming apparatus.

<Specific Forms>

A more specific form of another embodiment according to the presentinvention will be explained with reference to FIGS. 9 through 12. Sincean image forming system introduced as such another embodiment isidentical in its hardware to the image forming system described abovebased on FIGS. 1 through 8, the description thereof will therefore beomitted. In the present embodiment, however, a billing device 1 a isconnected to each of copiers, and a billing device 2 a is connected toeach of printers. These billing devices 1 a and 2 a are devices forpermitting the use of copiers 1 and/or printers 2 with the settlement incash or by a credit card as a condition.

Processes of such an image forming system at the time that a member orcompany staffer corresponding to an operator 7 approaches the copier 1or the printer 2 with the intention of copying or printing, will beexplained based on flowcharts shown in FIGS. 10 through 12. FIG. 10 is aflowchart showing, for example, a process for counting the number ofsheets for image formation, which is employed in each of the copier 1and printer 2. When the operator 7 corresponding to the company stafferwith a member certificate 9 put thereon approaches the copier 1 or theprinter 2, a RF communication device 8 lying within the copier 1 orprinter 2 receives a radio signal sent from a RF circuit 18 placedwithin a RF-ID element 10 and hence a drive control circuit 13 lyingwithin the copier 1 or printer 2 recognizes the presence of a RFreaction (Step S101). Thus, the copier 1 or printer 2 transmits querydata through the RF writing device 8 by radio waves (Step S102). Thecontents of the query includes a query as to each personal ID code and aquery about the numbers of sheets to be copied and printed.Correspondingly, the RF-ID element 10 lying within the membercertificate 9 transmits each personal ID code and the numbers of thesheets to be copied and printed, which have been stored and held in anEEPROM 16, through the RF circuit 18 by radio waves. The numbers of thesheets to be copied and printed in this case are set every ID codes forthe copier 1 and printer 2. The copier 1 and printer 2 respectivelyreceive response data sent from such a RF-ID element 10 (Step S103) andtransmits the response data to a host computer 4 via a LAN line (StepS104).

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process to be executed by the hostcomputer after having received the response data from the copier 1 andthe printer 2. When the response data (corresponding to personal IDcodes and the numbers of sheets to be copied and printed) transmittedfrom the copier 1 and printer 2 are received by the host computer 4 inStep S104 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 (Step S201), ID codes (eachcorresponding to each personal ID code in this case) are extracted fromthe response data (Step S202). Although not demonstrated in theflowchart of FIG. 11 in this case, a LAN control device 3 is used wheneach ID code is not extracted and transmits image formation invalidatingdata to the copier 1 or printer 2 having transmitted the response datatherefrom. On the other hand, the corresponding ID code is retrievedfrom the personal file 19 illustrated in FIG. 5 by way of example. Thenumber of sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of sheets to beprinted 19 e both corresponding to the retrieved ID code are comparedwith the number of sheets to be copied and the number of sheets to beprinted in the response data (Step S203). The comparison in this case isperformed every ID codes with respect to both the copier 1 and theprinter 2. Here, the function of comparing means is executed.

The results of comparison are obtained as three kinds. Namely, the threetypes are as follows: one case in which the number of the sheets to becopied 19 d and the number of the sheets to be printed 19 e(number-of-sheets data N) in each personal file 19 corresponding to anumber-of-sheets file are greater than the number of sheets to becopied/printed (number-of-sheets data M) in the response data (where theanswer is found to be Y in Step S204), another case in which the numberof the sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of the sheets to beprinted 19 e (number-of-sheets data N) in each personal file 19 arefewer than the number of sheets to be copied/printed (number-of-sheetsdata M) in the response data (where the answer is found to be Y in StepS205), and a further case in which the number of sheets to becopied/printed (number-of-sheets data M) in the response data coincideswith the number of the sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of thesheets to be printed 19 e (number-of-sheets data N) in each personalfile 19 (where the answer is found to be Y in Step S205).

When the number of the sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of thesheets to be printed 19 e (N) in each personal file 19 are greater thanthe number of sheets to be copied/printed (M) in the response data (whenthe answer is found to be Y in Step S204), the LAN control device 3 isused to transmit the number of the sheets to be copied 19 d and thenumber of the sheets to be printed 19 e (number-of-sheets data N) ineach personal file 19 corresponding to the number-of-sheets file to thecopier 1 or printer 2 having transmitted the response data therefrom(Step S206). Here, the function of part of first updating means isexecuted.

When the number of the sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of thesheets to be printed 19 e (number-of-sheets data N) in the personal file19 are fewer than the number of the sheets to be copied/printed(number-of-sheets data M) in the response data (when the answer is foundto be Y in Step S205), a process for brining the number-of-sheets data Nup to the number-of-sheets data M is executed (Step S207: secondupdating means). Namely, the number of the sheets to be copied 19 d orthe number of the sheets to be printed 19 e is updated to be the numberof sheets to be copied or the number of sheets to be printed in theRF-ID element 10. Further, the number of sheets to be copied 20 b, thenumber of sheets to be printed 20 c, an amount for copy 20 d, an amountfor print 20 e and a total amount 20 f in a post file 20 are alsoupdated together (Step S207). Here, the number of the sheets to becopied 20 band the number of the sheets to be printed 20 c correspondingto a post code 20 a in the post file 20 are a collection or set ofcommon items as to an assignment 19 c in the personal file 19. Theamount for copy 20 d, the amount for print 20 e and the total amount 20f are calculated based on the number of sheets 20 band the number ofsheets to be printed 20 cset for each post code 20 a by the hostcomputer 4. In particular, the amount for copy 20 d and the amount forprint 20 e are calculated for each copier 1 and each printer 2 with anID code as a key.

As shown in Step S105 in the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, the copier 1and the printer 2 respectively determine the presence or absence ofresponses from the host computer 4. The responses in this case includethe transmission of image formation invalidating data at the time thateach ID code cannot be extracted in Step S202 of FIG. 11, thetransmission of the number of the sheets to be copied 19 d and thenumber of the sheets to be printed 19 e (number-of-sheets data N) in thepersonal file, which is executed in Step S206 of FIG. 11, and thetransmission of other instructions. When the transmission of the numberof the sheets to be copied 19 d and the number of the sheets to beprinted 19 e (number-of-sheets data N) in the personal file 19 iscarried out (when the answer is found to be Y in Step S106), a processfor updating the number of sheets to be copied or the number of sheetsto be printed stored in the EEPROM 16 of the RF-ID element 10 to be thetransmitted number-of-sheets data N is performed (Step S109). Here, thefunction of part of the first updating means is executed. When thetransmission of the image formation invalidating data is carried out(when the answer is found to be Y in Step S107), image forminginstruction invalidating data is produced and temporarily stored in awork area of a memory in the drive control circuit 13 of the copier 1 orprinter 2 (Step S113). When the transmission of other instructions isperformed (when the answer is found to be N in Step S107), a process forstarting up a routine for processing the instructions is executed (StepS108).

Next, the copier 1 and the printer 2 respectively determine whethercopying and printing have been executed (Step S110). If the copying andprinting are found to have been executed (if the answer is found to be Yin Step S110), then the numbers of sheets therefor are counted and thecounted increased number-of-sheet data is transmitted to the hostcomputer 4 via the LAN line (Step S111). Further, the data istransmitted via the RF communication device by radio waves (Step S112).As shown in FIG. 11, the host computer 4 having received the increasednumber-of-sheets data therein (corresponding to Y in Step S208) performsa process for adding the increased number-of-sheets data to thenumber-of-sheets data N to perform data updating (Step S209). Namely,the increased number-of-sheets data is added to the number of the sheetsto be copied 19 d or the number of the sheets to be printed 19 e in thepersonal file 19, and the number of sheets to be copied 20 b, the numberof sheets to be printed 20 c, the amount for copy 20 d, the amount forprint 20 e and the total amount 20 f are updated together (Step S209).The counted number-of-sheets data transmitted by radio waves is capturedby the RF-ID element 10 via the RF circuit 18 so that the data stored inthe EEPROM 16 is updated. Namely, the number of the sheets to be copiedby the corresponding copier 1 or the number of the sheets to be printedby the corresponding printer 2, each of which has been stored in theEEPROM 16, is updated.

According to the present embodiment as described above, the number ofsheets for image formation, such as the number of sheets to be copied,the number of sheets to be printed or the like can be finely managedwithout preparing the conventionally used key counter, key card, etc.and without special operation. It is also possible to easily obtainbilling information. Further, when the number of the sheets to be copiedand the number of the sheets to be printed both stored in the RF-IDelement 10 in each ID card 9 do not coincide with the numbers of thesheets to be copied 19 d and 20 band the numbers of the sheets to beprinted 19 e and 20 c in the personal file 19 and post file 20 eachcorresponding to the number-of-sheets file due to any reason, the firstupdating means and the second updating means resolve a mismatch betweenthe number-of-sheets data. Thus, the accurate management of the numberof sheets can be carried out.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a process executed when an image forminginstruction is inputted to a copier 1 or printer 2 from an unillustratedimage formation instructing device. When the image forming instructionis inputted (when the answer is found to be Y in Step S301), the copier1 or printer 2 first receives response data form the RF-ID element 10 (Yin Step S302) and executes a copying/printing operation (Step S305) onthe condition that no image formation invalidating data exists (N inStep S304).

When no response data is now received from the RF-ID element 10 (whenthe answer is found to be N in Step S302), the drive control circuits 13of the copier 1 and printer 2 determine the presence or absence ofsettlement by the billing devices 1 a and 2 a (Step S303). If thesettlement is found to exist as a result of the determination thereof,then the copying/printing operation is allowed and executed (Step S305).On the other hand, if the settlement is found not to exist, then theprocess (Step S305) for the copying/printing operation is not executedand the invalidity of the image forming instruction is notified (StepS306). Here, the functions of second image forming instructioninvalidating means and second notifying means are executed. Thenotification in this case may include an indication made by anunillustrated display, voice notification, etc. and is regardless of itstype. The billing system like the present embodiment, using the billingdevices 1 a and 2 a is so convenient under such a condition that in alibrary or the like, for example, a staff member having an ID card likea member certificate 9 and a visitor who does not hold such an ID card,share the use of the copier 1 and the printer 2 or the like.

When image forming instruction invalidating data is generated andtemporarily stored in the work area in the memory of the drive controlcircuit 13 (when the answer is found to be Y in Step S304) even when theresponse data from the RF-ID element 10 is received (when the answer isfound to be Y in Step S302), the process for the copying/printingoperation (Step S305) is not performed and the invalidity of the imageforming instruction is notified (Step S307). Here, the functions offirst image forming instruction invalidating means and first notifyingmeans are executed. The notification in this case may also include anindication made by an unillustrated display, voice notification, etc.and is regardless of its type. Here, the condition that the imageforming instruction invalidating data is generated and temporarilystored in the work area in the memory of the drive control circuit 13,is set up when each personal ID code included in the response datacannot be retrieved from the corresponding ID code 19 a in the personalfile 19. This has already been explained in the description of Step S202in FIG. 11, Steps S107 and S113 in FIG. 10, and these respectiveprocesses. In such respective processes, each personal ID code stored inthe EEPRPOM 16 of the RF-ID element 10, and the ID code 19 a stored inthe personal file 19 used as the number-of-sheets file function even aspermit codes respectively. Further, the personal file 19 functions evenas a permit code storage area. Namely, the use of the personal ID codeand the permit code is shared and the storage capacity of a memory areain each of the EEPROM 16 and the host computer 4 is effectivelyutilized.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Thepresent embodiment is therefore to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the present inventionbeing indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoingdescription and all changes which come within the meaning and range ofequivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

The present application is based on Japanese Priority Document Hei11-105013 filed on Apr. 13, 1999 and Japanese Priority Document Hei11-113089 filed on Apr. 21, 1999 the content of which are incorporatedherein by reference.

1. An image forming system, comprising: an image forming apparatus forexecuting an image forming operation according to an image forminginstruction issued from an image formation instructing device; means forcounting the number of sheets for the formation of an image by the imageforming apparatus; a RF communication device provided within the imageformation instructing device and configured to read a personal ID codefrom a RF-ID element of an ID card incorporating therein the RF-IDelement for storing at least the personal ID code; a number-of-sheetsfile for storing therein the number of sheets for the formation of eachimage by the image forming apparatus for each ID code havingpredetermined bearing on the personal ID code; and means for, when animage forming instruction is given to the image forming apparatus fromthe image formation instructing device while the RF communication deviceis reading the personal ID code, storing the number of sheets for imageformation based on the image forming instruction, which is counted bythe counting means, in the number-of-sheets file in association witheach ID code having predetermined bearing on the personal ID code readby the RF communication device, wherein a permit code storage area forstoring in advance a permit code for allowing the image forminginstruction issued from the image formation instructing device isprovided, and the RF-ID element stores the permit code therein andinvalidates the image forming instruction when the RF communicationdevice is reading each code unstored in the permit code storage areawhere the operation for the image forming instruction is effected on theimage formation instructing device.
 2. The image forming systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the image formation instructing device isprovided integrally with the image forming apparatus.
 3. The imageforming system according to claim 1, wherein the image formationinstructing device is placed in a position away separately from theimage forming apparatus.
 4. The image forming system according to claim1, wherein the ID code is a code identical to the personal ID code. 5.The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the ID code isand ID code indicative of a post to which each individual correspondingto the personal ID code belongs.
 6. (Cancel)
 7. The image imaging systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the RF-ID element stores therein thenumber of the sheets for the formation of each image by the imageforming apparatus, and when an image forming instruction is given to theimage forming apparatus from the image formation instructing devicewhile the RF communication device is reading the personal ID code, thestoring means adds the number of sheets for image formation based on theimage forming instruction, which is counted by the counting means, tothe RF-ID element.
 8. (Cancel)
 9. The image forming system according toclaim 1, wherein when the RF communication device is reading each codeunstored in the permit code storage area where the operation for theimage forming instruction is effected on the image formation instructingdevice, the RF communication device notifies the contents thereoftherefrom.
 10. The image forming system according to claim 1, whereinthe permit code is the personal ID code.
 11. The image forming systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the RF-ID element invalidates the imageforming instruction when the RF communication device does not read anycode where the operation for the image forming instruction is effectedon the image formation instructing device.
 12. The image forming systemaccording to claim 11, wherein when the RF communication device does notread any code where the operation for the image forming instruction iseffected on the image formation instructing device, the RF communicationdevice notifies the contents thereof therefrom.
 13. The image formingsystem according to claim 11, wherein the permit code is the personal IDcode
 14. The image forming system according to claim 11, furtherincluding a billing device for performing predetermined billingaccording to the operation of the image forming apparatus, and whereinwhen the RF communication device does not read any code where theoperation for the image forming instruction is effected on the imageformation instructing device, the billing device is activated tovalidate the image forming instruction on the condition that settlementis carried out by the billing device. 15-28. (Cancel)